The first time I drove in the west I under estimated the time it takes to drive places. Looking on a map it doesn't seem too great a distance to drive thru Yosemite, but it takes nearly a full day because the roads are up and down mountains and your speed is limited - then you need time to stop and see things.

Similarly, the Grand Canyon is spectacular, but you need at least half a day to see it and then you're a long way from anywhere. I remember staying in Flagstaff and getting a plane trip over the canyon, which made me air sick :(

Driving through the desert to Vegas is interesting, but you seem to drive forever to get nowhere fast. From Vegas it's worth stopping at the Hoover Dam and taking the tour. On the way to LA it's a good trip to branch off on the I10 for Palm Springs, you can go up the cable car and shop at Indio - the area is relaxing after all the driving, and a few days sitting by the pool is a welcome relief.

Driving down the coast from SF to LA on the PCH is one of the better trips, but can be slow and a bit dangerous at times, especially if you're tired and trying to rush before it gets dark. I like Monterey and Santa Barbara areas to stay for a couple of days ... and down near San Diego I prefer to stay at La Jolla Pines (near the golf course).